Children of incarcerated parents find support at basketball camp on West Side

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Nearly 175 children gathered Saturday at the Hope Student Athletics Center for the Angel Tree Sports Camp, a one-day basketball event aimed at supporting children who have a parent in jail.

The campers ran drills and tested their skills at the basketball camp, which is run by Prison Fellowship. Organizers said the event brings children of incarcerated parents together to heal while participating in sports activities.

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"Even though you have challenging circumstances. Lets not leave anybody behind, and lets provide some opportunities in some great rooms," said Christopher Mallette, director of community engagement at Chicago Hope Academy.

The camp is designed to provide mentorship and support to families facing difficult circumstances. Among those sharing their experiences was Brandon Johnson, a youth activist who said he understands the challenges many of the children face.

Johnson was selected to play in the NBA, but his time in the league was cut short after he was sentenced to six months in prison for conspiracy to commit sports bribery.

"My mom was incarcerated in the third grade. I was incarcerated when I had a son, so I've been both sides of the spectrum, and to see these kids is such a touching moment for me because I know what they need," Johnson said.

Johnson said he hopes his story will inspire young people to overcome challenges and avoid letting difficult circumstances define their futures.

"Never quit. Just the ability to achieve things that you can still can be great even if you mad a bad decision," Johnson said.

Event organizers said that kind of encouragement can make a meaningful difference for children navigating challenging situations.

"It takes a village to raise a family and they need all the support and the love . our goal is to surround them with community," said Nikki Mattison, an Angel Tree event planner.

Organizers said the camp's goal is to provide children of incarcerated parents with support, mentorship and a sense of community through sports and positive role models.